Signs with Texas Rangers After Productive Season with Padres
The Texas Rangers have bolstered their catching corps by signing veteran Kyle Higashioka to a two-year contract, including a mutual option for the 2027 season. The deal, valued at $13.5 million, was announced Monday and reported by the Dallas Morning News.
Higashioka, 34, spent the 2024 season with the San Diego Padres after being traded from the New York Yankees as part of the Juan Soto deal last offseason. The 6-foot-1, 202-pound catcher showcased newfound power during his time in San Diego, hitting a career-high 17 home runs along with 45 RBIs and 29 runs scored over 84 games and 263 plate appearances.
Earning $2.18 million in his final arbitration-eligible season, Higashioka was expected to receive a raise as spring training approached. Known for his defensive prowess, he transitioned seamlessly from a backup role with the Yankees—where he often caught ace Gerrit Cole—to a vital presence in the Padres’ postseason push.
San Diego manager Mike Shildt praised Higashioka’s impact, particularly his ability to work closely with the team’s pitchers. “He’s been fantastic,” Shildt said during the playoffs. “He’s done a great job of being an extension of myself, but his relationship with the pitchers is the most important thing.”
The Rangers, coming off a disappointing 78-84 season following their 2023 World Series win, are looking to regroup. Higashioka’s addition is part of their effort to strengthen their roster and bounce back in the competitive American League West.
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